Few hours after his arrest, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has explained why activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, was arrested following #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja on Monday.
Speaking with journalists on Thursday in Abuja, Force Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, said the arrest was to ensure fairness in the handling of the case involving those who took part in the demonstration in support of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
Hundeyin said Sowore allegedly led protesters into a restricted area during the protest and that his arrest was necessary to apply justice equally.
He said, “If we move from there to charge some people to court and leave the person who led them to commit that act, more like their leader, the elite protester who told them and took them into the restricted area, that would not be fair.
“And that’s why, in the spirit of fair play and to ensure that justice is served, Omoyele Sowore was arrested today.”
The police spokesperson added that Sowore would not be held longer than the law allows and would be arraigned the same day.
He said, “Like the others, he wouldn’t spend time with us. He wouldn’t spend up to 24 hours with us. Once we wrap up the charges, he’s going to be prosecuted. In fact, if everything goes right, our plan is to ensure that he’s prosecuted today. He goes to court today.”
Meanwhile Tribune Online earlier reports that Sowore was arrested on Thursday at the Federal High Court in Abuja, shortly after appearing in solidarity with Nnamdi Kanu.
He has been a leading voice in campaigns demanding Kanu’s release and had led a protest in Abuja on Monday calling for his freedom.
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